South Gloucestershire Council: Matt Annen is pleased to share the news that he has recently secured planning permission for the erection of a new CO-OP convenience store with 5 flats above, retention of an existing public house, with associated access and parking in Chipping Sodbury, South Gloucestershire.
Previous to our involvement the site had somewhat of a negative planning history and so we advised in the first instance to submit a pre-application consultation with the Council to present our proposals to the planning department and negotiate a mutually acceptable development that overcame previous concerns, whilst delivering a development that was commercially viable and fit for purpose. After constructive discussions with the Council, and again working collaboratively with architects UAN-Architecture and transport consultants; ADL traffic & Highways Engineering Ltd we submitted a revised application.
As part of the application, we prepared a comprehensive supporting design, access and planning statement which set out the merits of the proposal in a clear and concise manner, whilst making it clear that the revised proposals were was in accordance within adopted planning policies that support economic growth and the provision of new homes in sustainable locations.
The appointed officer concluded that the proposal would provide five small, open-market, residential units on previously developed land in a highly sustainable location, which would make a positive, contribution to housing stock. He continued; “The retention of the public house and introduction of a convenience store with associated employment opportunities is a positive aspect of the scheme, as are the social and economic benefits of the scheme… The proposal would significantly enhance the vitality and viability of the Local Centre and significantly improve the prospects of the re-opening of the Tern Inn. The associated increased footfall will encourage sustainable shopping patterns; all of which weigh heavily in favour of the scheme”.
The convenience store will be occupied by the Co-operative and the new store will have an emphasis on fresh food and it will stock a wide range of fruit and veg, award winning fresh food and British meat and poultry. The development will create additional permanent jobs which will provide a significant boost to the local economy.
If you have a commercial premises or vacant/underused brownfield site and would like to pursue a change of use application, or any other commercially-related planning application for that matter such as; increasing opening hours, new shopfronts, new signage, canopies etc. then why not call Pure Town Planning on 01202 585524 or email info@puretownplanning.co.uk to find out how we can help you.